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Monday October 7, 2013 6:26 AM

With football season in full swing, the time seems
right for a confession: I’m a sports fan who really isn’t all that interested in sports.

To those who know me well, my lack of sports passion is
no secret.

Still, the truth can prove awkward sometimes because I
enjoy going to games or watching them on television at sports bars. I also love tailgating — the
beer, the food, the energy of the crowds, and the camaraderie or rivalry experienced in
person.

Recently, I invited a few people
over to watch an Ohio State football game. We had a good time, but when the game ended, I wasted
little time switching the channel to the reality showSurvivor Man.

A friend quickly reminded me that the day was supposed
to be about football, so I reluctantly turned to another game in progress.

What can I say? The game had ended, and Les Stroud was
about to start a fire with a battery and steel wool — how could I pass on that?

What I lack is an emotional attachment to a particular
team or player. I have nothing riding on a game or a season.

I usually cheer for the home team (whoever that might
be at the time), but I don’t lose sleep over the outcome of a game. Honestly, I don’t care who wins
or loses.

My indifference means that I don’t stay up extra-late
to see a final quarter or inning. Likewise, I don’t rush home to catch a kickoff.

This may shock some people, but I don’t know where to
find ESPN on my cable lineup; I have to look at a guide to find the number.

I’ve grown used to guys instinctively asking me, “Did
you see that game last night?” — not realizing that I have no clue what game they’re talking
about.

In fact, when I tell them that I’m not into watching
sports that much, I can almost see their brain struggling to process my words. I get a kick out of
it.

I know Columbus is a big sports town, and I respect the
passion people have for their teams. We all have things that interest us (some more than
others).

What I’ve realized is that I can love sports from a
distance and still enjoy them.

Think of a family member with persistent body odor: You
care for them, but at an arm’s length.